If you love classic tiramisu but want to take it up a notch, this Dulce de Leche Tiramisu is the perfect way to infuse sweet, caramelized richness into a timeless dessert. The creamy layers of mascarpone, dulce de leche, and whipped cream pair beautifully with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
This no-bake treat is perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or just when you want a luxurious dessert without turning on the oven. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a beautifully layered, restaurant-quality dessert in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Indulgent – The dulce de leche adds a rich caramel flavor that takes tiramisu to the next level.
- No-Bake Dessert – A perfect make-ahead recipe that requires zero baking.
- Coffee & Caramel Perfection – The coffee-soaked ladyfingers balance the sweetness of the creamy layers.
- Easy to Make – Just dip, layer, and chill—it’s that simple!
- Elegant Yet Simple – A gorgeous, layered dessert that looks fancy but requires minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6-8 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 4+ hours)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfinger cookies
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Coffee
I start by brewing a strong cup of coffee and setting it aside to cool completely.
(Pro Tip: Use espresso or dark roast coffee for the most robust flavor!)
2. Mix the Dulce de Leche & Mascarpone
In a mixing bowl, I combine dulce de leche and mascarpone cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
(Pro Tip: If the dulce de leche is too thick, I microwave it for 10 seconds to soften it.)
3. Whip the Cream
In another bowl, I whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
(Pro Tip: For the fluffiest results, I chill the bowl and whisk beforehand!)
4. Combine the Creamy Layers
I gently fold the whipped cream into the dulce de leche mixture, stirring carefully until fully blended.
5. Dip the Ladyfingers in Coffee
I quickly dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee, ensuring they are moist but not soggy.
(Pro Tip: A quick 1-second dip is enough—over-soaking will make the layers mushy!)
6. Layer the Dessert
In a baking dish or serving glass, I start layering:
1️⃣ A layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers at the bottom.
2️⃣ Half of the dulce de leche cream mixture, spread evenly.
3️⃣ Another layer of dipped ladyfingers.
4️⃣ The remaining dulce de leche mixture.
7. Chill for Maximum Flavor
I cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor and texture.
(Pro Tip: The longer it chills, the better the flavors blend together!)
8. Dust with Cocoa & Serve
Just before serving, I dust the top with cocoa powder, adding a beautiful finishing touch.
Then, it’s time to slice, serve, and indulge!
Pro Tips for the Best Dulce de Leche Tiramisu
- Use High-Quality Coffee – Strong, freshly brewed coffee enhances the depth of flavor.
- Chill Before Serving – The longer it sits, the better the flavors develop!
- Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers – A quick dip prevents them from getting too soggy.
- For Extra Caramel Flavor – Drizzle a little extra dulce de leche on top before serving.
- Make Individual Servings – Layer in small glasses or ramekins for a personalized dessert presentation.
What to Serve with Dulce de Leche Tiramisu
This tiramisu is already rich and indulgent, but pairing it with the right additions makes it even more special:
- A Hot Espresso or Cappuccino – Complements the coffee-infused layers beautifully.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A cool contrast to the creamy texture.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – A fruity, chocolatey touch.
- A Glass of Dessert Wine – Try Marsala wine or a sweet Moscato for an elevated pairing.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
A: Yes! While mascarpone is traditional and creamier, cream cheese works as a great substitute. Just let it soften at room temperature for easy blending.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day since the flavors have more time to meld.
Q: How long does tiramisu last in the fridge?
A: Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this tiramisu alcohol-free?
A: Yes! This version is already alcohol-free, but if you want a boozy touch, add a splash of Kahlua, Baileys, or rum to the coffee before dipping the ladyfingers.
Q: Can I freeze this tiramisu?
A: Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Why You Need to Try This Dulce de Leche Tiramisu
This Dulce de Leche Tiramisu takes a classic Italian dessert and gives it a creamy, caramel-infused upgrade. It’s rich yet light, elegant yet easy, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, dinner party, or a sweet weeknight indulgence, this no-bake dessert never fails to impress.
So grab your ladyfingers, mascarpone, and dulce de leche, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! What’s your favorite tiramisu variation? 🍮✨
Dulce de Leche Tiramisu: A Creamy, Caramel Twist on an Italian Classic
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee
- 1 cup dulce de leche
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 24 ladyfingers
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Brew the coffee and let it cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, dulce de leche, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined.
- Dip each ladyfinger briefly into the cooled coffee and layer them in a serving dish.
- Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers in the dish.
- Add another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers on top of the mascarpone layer.
- Spread the remaining mascarpone mixture over the second layer of ladyfingers.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder.
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